In further research, Panera says it found that half of the top 10 fast-casual restaurants that offer breakfast have an “egg” consisting of at least five ingredients, with additives, such as butter-type flavors, gums and added color.

So, the chain is petitioning the FDA to define exactly what an “egg” is.

According to Sara Burnett, Panera’s director of wellness and food policy, “Panera and our competitors use the FDA definitions to guide our product descriptions and names. But in the case of ‘eggs,’ we have no guidance. Brands can say they offer an egg sandwich, but sell an egg product that contains multiple additives. At Panera, consumers can be assured that when they order eggs, that’s exactly what they’re getting.”

Panera is promoting the conversation on social media with the hashtag: #RespectTheEgg.

New restaurant roundup

There’s been another round of restaurant openings across the Inland Empire. Here’s a few of the new options out there:

In Redlands, the town’s sole Carl’s Jr.reopened last month after an extensive remodeling, which involved the razing of the vast majority of the building. The restaurant is at 1205 W. Colton Ave.

In Riverside, a new Del Taco opened this week along the 215 Freeway. The city’s 14th Del Taco location, it can be found at 1155 W. La Cadena Drive. Another new location is set to open in Corona at 2260 Frontage Road.

The Habit Burger Grill officially opened its newest restaurant this week in the High Desert. The restaurant — 11608 Amargosa Road, Victorville — is open 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday and 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The restaurant’s drive-thru is open an hour later than the lobby.

In Yucaipa, Tuscano’s Pizza & Pasta has opened at 32693 Yucaipa Blvd., in the spot most recently occupied by the venerated AJ Barile’s Chicago Pizza, which closed in 2016. The restaurant is open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday at 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Thanks to our pal Keith for spotting Tuscano’s.

In San Bernardino, the Flame Broiler has opened in the site that, for decades, was Taco Tia, 2535 N. Del Rosa Ave. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Thanks to our friend Martha for alerting us to this one.

Taste of the I.E.

Ever wonder what the Inland Empire tastes like? Find out Friday, Jan. 26, at the Taste of the I.E.